Make the Most of the 2025 Summer Holidays in Ashfield

Looking for fun, free, and family-friendly things to do in Ashfield this summer? Whether you’re planning a day out, Ashfield is buzzing this summer with exciting, free events and sessions that are perfect for families.

Whether you’re based in Kirkby in Ashfield, Sutton, Hucknall, or the surrounding areas, there’s plenty happening to help your family enjoy the break together.

Download the full activity guide here:
Ashfield Summer Holiday Activity Guide 2025

Summary of What’s On in Ashfield This Summer

Here’s a quick summary of the best Ashfield events and free activities running between July and early September 2025:

 

Week 1: July 28th – August 3rd

Monday 28th July

The summer holidays kick off with a variety of activities, including free BABES Breastfeeding Support Groups at both Summer House Family Hub and Hucknall Family Hub. Families can enjoy Family Ninja TAG at Lammas Leisure Centre (£2 per person) and various swimming and sports activities at Hucknall Leisure Centre. The Teversal Visitor Centre offers Bendy Kids Yoga sessions and Family Bowls throughout the week.

Tuesday 29th July

A highlight of the week is the free Summer Fayre at Kirkby-in-Ashfield Library (11am-2pm), featuring stalls, children’s crafts, face painting, giant lego, and free refreshments. The Jurassic Dino Show at Teversal Visitor Centre promises excitement for dinosaur enthusiasts (£4.50 per child).

Wednesday 30th July

Ready, Steady, Trains at Teversal Visitor Centre offers train-themed fun (£3 per child), while the Play Forum Free Craft Event at Sutton Lawn provides creative activities for children aged 0-10 years. The HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programme begins at ATTFE College, offering free activities with breakfast and lunch included for ages 5-16.

Thursday 31st July

The week continues with free Potter’s Wheel crafts at Ladybrook Library and the Our Centre Summer Fete (10am-4pm) offering free entry and activities for all ages. Multiple HAF programmes continue across various venues.

Friday 1st August – Sunday 3rd August

The weekend features Little Miracles trip to Conkers Adventure Park, Dragonfly Crafts Family Paint Party at Teversal, and various Lego Clubs at local libraries. Free Park Tennis is available at Sutton Lawn for all ages.

 

Week 2: August 4th – 10th

Monday 4th August

The week begins with an exciting Asylum Skate & Bouldering Session for young people aged 5-19 (free with equipment and meal included). Regular activities continue with Family Ninja TAG, swimming sessions, and various Stay and Play groups across family hubs.

Tuesday 5th August

Mini Zoo sessions at Teversal Visitor Centre (£3 per child) offer hands-on animal experiences, while the Play Forum Summer Event at Kingsway Park provides free outdoor fun. HAF programmes continue at both Hucknall and Lammas Leisure Centres for ages 8-11.

Wednesday 6th August

Learn All About Bees at Teversal Visitor Centre (free session) and enjoy Book Bouquet Making at Hucknall Library. The Beach Party Event at Hucknall Family Hub promises summer fun for families with children aged 0-8.

Thursday 7th August – Sunday 10th August

The Ashfield Show takes center stage from Thursday to Sunday at Sutton Lawn, featuring free activities in the Community Marquee. Little Miracles organizes trips to Wheelgate Theme Park (£10 per person), and the Asda Community Pudsey Club Teddy Bears Picnic provides free family fun at Teversal.

 

Week 3: August 11th – 17th

Monday 11th August

The week starts with Dragonfly Crafts Summer Fun sessions and the Filling Station at St Helen’s Church, Selston, offering free meals during school holidays. Multiple swimming and sports activities continue at leisure centres across the district.

Tuesday 12th August

Cookie ‘n’ Canvas Painting (£15 + booking fee) and Litter Picking and Recycling Fun with Ashfield District Council provide creative and educational opportunities at Teversal Visitor Centre.

Wednesday 13th August

Forest Schools sessions offer outdoor learning experiences, while All About Bees learning continues. The Teddy Bears Picnic Event at Jamie Brough Pavilion promises family-friendly entertainment.

Weekend Activities

The Ashfield Food and Drink Festival takes place all day Sunday in Hucknall Town Centre, and Little Miracles Saturday Club features a beach theme at ATTFE Hub.

 

Week 4: August 18th – 24th

Monday 18th August

Tuff Riders BMX sessions begin at Teversal (£5), offering learn-to-ride opportunities and skills sessions for various ages. The Dragonfly Crafts Family Nature Walk and Craft combines outdoor exploration with creative activities.

Tuesday 19th August onwards

The week continues with regular programming including HAF activities, Young Explorers Book Club, and various sports and swimming sessions. Stay and Play themes change to “Under the Sea” across family hubs.

Wednesday 20th August

Another Mini Zoo session at Teversal and Teddy Bears Picnic events provide family entertainment, while the Party in the Car Park at Summer House Family Hub offers outdoor fun.

Thursday 21st August

Little Miracles organises a trip to Magna Science Centre in Rotherham (£15 per person), and Little Creatives sessions at Kirkby-in-Ashfield Library cater to children aged 2-5 with specially designed arts activities.

 

Week 5: August 25th – 31st

Monday 25th – Tuesday 26th August

The final week maintains regular programming with Family Ninja TAG, swimming sessions, and Ghostbuster Training at Teversal (£4.50). Paint Splatter Snails at Hucknall Library offers creative fun for families.

Wednesday 27th August

Forest Schools sessions continue, and the Ashfield District Council Wellbeing Event takes place in Selston. Stay and Play sessions feature summer festival themes.

Thursday 28th August

Kids Summer Crafts at Tin Hat Centre includes a picnic lunch (£6 per child), while regular HAF programmes and leisure centre activities continue.

Friday 29th August

Little Miracles concludes their summer trips with a visit to Yorkshire Wildlife Park (£15 per person), offering families a chance to explore wildlife together.

Weekend Finale: August 30th – 31st

The summer programme concludes with the Little Miracles Big Summer Event at Ashby Rugby Club Training Ground and regular weekend activities at leisure centres and libraries.

 

Key Recurring Activities Throughout Summer

Free Activities

• Rattle, Rhyme and Roll sessions at all libraries
• Stay and Play groups at family hubs
• Lego Clubs at libraries every Saturday
• Summer Reading Challenge (July 5 – September 7)
• Free Park Tennis at Sutton Lawn (Saturdays)

Regular Paid Activities (£2 per person)

• Family Ninja TAG at Lammas Leisure Centre (daily)
• Family Swimming at Hucknall Leisure Centre
• Family Badminton at Kirkby-in-Ashfield and Hucknall Leisure Centres
• Active Antzs for under 5s at Hucknall Leisure Centre

Special Features

• HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programmes providing free activities with meals
• Little Miracles organised trips and events for families
• Dragonfly Crafts workshops (£4.50 per child)
• Teversal Visitor Centre varied programme including mini zoo, crafts, and outdoor activities

 

Planning Your Summer

With over 200 activities listed in the complete guide, families can easily find age-appropriate activities within walking distance or a short journey across Ashfield. The programme caters to all age groups from babies (0-1 years) to teenagers (up to 19 years), with many activities welcoming whole families.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Many activities are completely free
• Family hubs offer regular free Stay and Play sessions
• Libraries provide free activities and the Summer Reading Challenge
• HAF programmes include free meals for eligible children
• Look out for “no booking required” activities for spontaneous family fun

NIDAS Is Here for You

At NIDAS, we know that the holidays can feel difficult — especially for families living with or recovering from domestic abuse. While many are enjoying local events, others may feel isolated or anxious.

If you or someone you know needs support, help is available 24/7.

📞 Juno Helpline for Nottinghamshire: 0808 800 0340
🚨 If in immediate danger, call 999